When the Mazda MX-5 Miata debuted for 1990, this snazzy little convertible was an instant hit. Marking a revival of the affordable sports car in a stripped-down roadster format popularized by British automakers in the 1950s and '60s, the MX-5 Miata brought reliability and modern engineering to the concept. Buyers lined up outside Mazda dealerships and gladly paid well over sticker price for the fetching new Miata.

These days, the Mazda MX-5 Miata continues to be a very popular convertible. It still changes direction eagerly, communicates the character of the road clearly to the driver and accelerates with an inspiring growl from its inline four-cylinder engine. If you're in the market for an affordable sports car that provides plenty of top-down, open-road thrills, we highly recommend putting a Mazda Miata on your list.